COLUMBIA, Tenn. — To raise awareness about the risk of heart disease for women, Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) is encouraging the community to wear red in support of National Wear Red Day on February 4.

“Heart disease is often associated with men; however, it is the number one killer of both men and women. National Wear Red Day provides us an opportunity to raise awareness about the risk to women and to educate the community about the signs and symptoms of a heart attack,” said Cathy Malone, administrative director of cardiovascular services.

The signs and symptoms of a heart attack may vary by individual and by gender. Commonly they include:

Chest discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back, which can feel like an uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain

Discomfort in other parts of the upper body, one or both arms, neck, jaw, upper back or stomach

Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort

Unusual fatigue

Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or light-headedness

Women may also experience a burning sensation in the back, shoulders, arms or jaw

“The single most important action to take when you experience any of these symptoms is to immediately call 911. Emergency personnel are highly trained, can begin treatment in the ambulance and will contact the emergency department so that physicians are ready and waiting for a patient once they arrive. A quick response can prevent permanent heart damage and, more importantly, could save your life,” said Malone.

MRMC is an accredited Level III chest pain center, the highest level attainable by the Society of Chest Pain Centers, and beats the nationally recommended guideline for opening blocked vessels—commonly referred to as door-to-balloon time.

MRMC will be offering a free Women Helping Women seminar on women and heart disease on Wednesday, February 16. For more information about this upcoming program, e-mail HEALTHeLink@mauryregional.com.